gategroup to Acquire Majority Stake in KLM Catering Services as Both Companies Expand European Operations
(IN SHORT) KLM and gategroup have agreed on a proposed deal in which gategroup will acquire a 75% stake in KLM Catering Services, while KLM retains 25%. The partnership aims to strengthen inflight catering through investment, innovation, and operational efficiency, while maintaining KLM’s involvement in service quality. The collaboration includes plans for a new facility in Amsterdam and forms part of KLM’s broader strategy to improve performance and prepare for future growth. The transaction is subject to regulatory and employee consultation approvals.
(PRESS RELEASE) AMSTELVEEN, The Netherlands, 2026-Mar-31 — /Travel PR News/ — KLM and gategroup have reached an agreement for the proposed acquisition of a majority stake in KLM Catering Services (KCS), marking a strategic move to strengthen onboard service capabilities and operational efficiency.
Under the terms of the agreement, gategroup will acquire a 75% stake in KCS, while KLM will retain a 25% share, ensuring continued involvement in inflight catering operations. The partnership is designed to support long-term investment in KCS while maintaining the quality standards associated with KLM’s passenger experience.
The transaction forms part of KLM’s broader “Back on Track” programme, aimed at improving performance and preparing the airline for future growth. By partnering with a global specialist operating in more than 60 countries, KLM seeks to enhance its catering operations through greater efficiency, innovation, and sustainability.
Bas Brouns emphasized that the collaboration allows KLM to benefit from gategroup’s expertise while continuing to oversee onboard catering quality. He also confirmed that the proposed deal is not expected to affect employment within KCS.
From gategroup’s perspective, the partnership represents an opportunity to expand its presence in Europe. Herman Anbeek highlighted plans to improve performance and reliability, as well as to elevate the passenger experience. As part of the collaboration, the companies intend to develop a new, state-of-the-art catering facility at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, incorporating advanced technology and high environmental standards.
KLM Catering Services brings extensive experience to the partnership, with more than 80 years in inflight catering. The company employs over 1,300 staff and produces more than 55,000 meals daily for around 350 flights, including intercontinental, European, and cargo operations. Its services also extend to multiple airline clients, supported by a fleet of catering vehicles.
The proposed acquisition remains subject to consultation with employee representative bodies and approval from relevant regulatory authorities.
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About KLM Catering Services
KLM Catering Services has more than 80 years of experience in inflight catering. The company employs more than 1,300 people and prepares over 55,000 meals daily for approximately 350 intercontinental, European, and cargo flights. With a fleet of 82 catering trucks, KLM Catering Services serves a wide range of airlines
SOURCE: KLM
